Now and again I read a post that highlights areas in my heart and life that do not line up with me and my big mouth. Gary Lamb has written an excellent piece on his blogs about men (especially pastors, leaders and church planters) covering and protecting their better halves.

"Church planter, listen to me. Your wife is the most important thing in your life. You have the duty to make sure she isn’t feeling stressed, pressured, or bitter about church planting. "

Ouch! The twelve step programme :) includes the following: 1.) God did NOT call my wife to pastor this church. 2.) She doesn’t need to know every thing that happens. 3.) She doesn’t have to be at every thing. 4.) I am VERY outspoken about complaining to my wife. 5.) She serves where she feels called. 6.) I don’t dump all my problems on her. 7.) I don’t cheat on her with the ministry. 8.) She loves where we are at. 9.) I don’t put financial pressure on her. 10.) I date my mate. 11.) I made sure she felt called. 12.) I protect her. That this be a guiding covenant for all in ministry ! Go read it for yourself here.